Larne look to King to be jewel in the crown

Otherwise, the Inver Park manager says that he expects that everybody else on the books who will figure in his plans for next season to come on board within the next week.McConnell didn’t want to specify names at this stage, but said: “Most of last season’s squad have put pen to paper again and I’d imagine that all those others we want to keep will be on board before the weekend is out.”

The Inver Park boss is delighted to obtain the services of such an experienced individual as King.

“He has played for top clubs – Linfield, Glenavon and Ballymena United amongst them – and, as well as being a skilled and gifted performer, he has a tremendous attitude and will be a terrific asset off the field as well as on it,” he said.

“Stuartie has a wealth of experience at top level and he will do a great job for us. His last club was Shankill United, but I think he was there chiefly because of his friendship with their management, Jamie Marks and Justin McBride.

“I have released George Young, who was signed two or three years ago by Paul Millar. I didn’t see him as part of my plans for next season, not least because of his work commitments,” explained McConnell, who was pleased by the turn-out for an open meeting at Larne FC last Thursday.

“It was very positive, with a good attendance from supporters, board members and other interested parties,” he said. “And it was revealed that the board has been strengthened in terms of numbers. There’s now a lof of fresh faces with some good ideas, including several females which is always welcome.

“The most important aspect of the meeting was the emphasis on expanding the membership. Among the aims are safeguarding the future of the club, developing better relations with the wider community, raising the profile with functions helping to raise funds for the club and local charities and providing a continuous stream of income for the football team.

“Among the benefits are season tickets for all home league games, voting privileges at all key meetings, membership of Inver Park Social Club, five free entries to LFC weekly draw, exclusive access to full members’ lounge during functions in the social club and, for businesses which join, advertising space at the ground.”

McConnell says money generated will go to his team budget.